Described herein is an apparatus having a wireless power receiver comprising a receiver coil used to receive power wirelessly and to communicate wirelessly. The wireless power receiver outputs power to a bus based on the wirelessly received power. The apparatus has an open-loop DC-DC converter and a linear regulator. The apparatus has a controller configured to enable the open-loop DC-DC converter to use the power on the bus to charge a battery. The controller is further configured to control the linear regulator to stabilize a current in the bus at the output of the wireless power receiver to reduce interference to the wireless communication when using the receiver coil to wirelessly communicate from the wireless power receiver to the transmitter of the power while the open-loop DC-DC converter is being used to charge the battery.
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1. An apparatus for charging a battery using wirelessly received power, the apparatus comprising: a wireless power receiver (RX) comprising a receiver coil, the wireless power RX configured to use the receiver coil to receive power wirelessly and to communicate wirelessly to a transmitter of the power, the wireless power RX having an output configured to output power to a bus based on the wirelessly received power; an open-loop DC-DC converter having an input coupled to the bus and an output coupled to a terminal configured to be coupled to the battery; a linear regulator connected along an electrical power pathway from the output of the wireless power RX to the terminal, the electrical power pathway having a portion that passes from the input of the open-loop DC-DC converter to the output of the open-loop DC-DC converter; and a controller configured to enable the open-loop DC-DC converter to use the power output to the bus by the wireless power RX to charge the battery; the controller further configured to control the linear regulator to stabilize a current in the bus at the output of the wireless power RX to reduce interference to the wireless communication when using the receiver coil to wirelessly communicate from the wireless power RX to the transmitter of the power while the open-loop DC-DC converter is being used to charge the battery.
Battery charging apparatus and method. This technology relates to systems for charging batteries using wireless power transfer. A problem addressed is interference with wireless communication during battery charging. The apparatus includes a wireless power receiver with a receiver coil. This receiver coil captures wireless power and also transmits wireless communication back to the power transmitter. The receiver outputs this received power to a bus. An open-loop DC-DC converter is connected to the bus and supplies power to a terminal for battery connection. A linear regulator is also in the power pathway between the receiver output and the battery terminal. This linear regulator is positioned so that a portion of its input is the output of the DC-DC converter. A controller manages the system. It enables the DC-DC converter to use the power from the bus to charge the battery. Crucially, the controller also adjusts the linear regulator to maintain a stable current on the bus. This stabilization of bus current is performed to minimize interference with the wireless communication signal when the receiver coil is used to send data back to the transmitter while charging is active.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to operate the linear regulator in a mode in which the linear regulator does not actively limit a current in the linear regulator unless a load powered by the battery draws a transient current while the open-loop DC-DC converter is being used to charge the battery.
A power management system for battery charging includes a linear regulator and an open-loop DC-DC converter. The system addresses inefficiencies in battery charging, particularly during transient load conditions. The linear regulator operates in a low-power mode, avoiding active current limiting unless a transient current is drawn by a load while the battery is being charged by the open-loop DC-DC converter. This prevents unnecessary power dissipation in the linear regulator during normal operation while ensuring protection during transient events. The open-loop DC-DC converter provides primary charging functionality, while the linear regulator acts as a secondary regulator to handle transient load demands. The controller dynamically adjusts the linear regulator's operation to balance efficiency and transient response, reducing energy loss during steady-state charging while maintaining system stability during sudden load changes. This approach improves overall power efficiency in battery-powered systems by minimizing unnecessary current regulation under normal conditions.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to operate the linear regulator in a mode in which the linear regulator actively limits a current in the linear regulator whether or not a load powered by the battery draws a transient current while the open-loop DC-DC converter is being used to charge the battery.
A power management system for battery charging and load regulation includes a linear regulator and an open-loop DC-DC converter. The system addresses inefficiencies and instability in battery charging and load power delivery, particularly during transient current events. The linear regulator actively limits current flow regardless of whether the load draws transient current, ensuring stable operation while the DC-DC converter charges the battery. This prevents voltage spikes or drops that could damage components or disrupt system performance. The controller dynamically adjusts the linear regulator's operation to maintain consistent current levels, improving energy efficiency and reliability. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring precise power management, such as portable electronics or automotive systems, where transient loads and battery charging must coexist without compromising stability. By decoupling the current regulation from transient load conditions, the system ensures smooth operation under varying power demands.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to control the linear regulator based on a target current for charging the battery with the open-loop DC-DC converter.
A battery charging apparatus includes a DC-DC converter operating in an open-loop configuration and a linear regulator that compensates for voltage deviations in the output of the DC-DC converter. The apparatus further includes a controller that regulates the linear regulator based on a target charging current for the battery. The DC-DC converter provides a primary voltage conversion stage, while the linear regulator adjusts the output voltage to maintain precise charging current levels. The controller monitors the charging process and dynamically adjusts the linear regulator to ensure the battery receives the desired current, compensating for variations in the open-loop DC-DC converter's output. This approach improves charging efficiency and accuracy by combining the high-power handling of the open-loop DC-DC converter with the fine-tuning capability of the linear regulator. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring stable and controlled battery charging, such as portable electronics or electric vehicles, where precise current regulation is essential for optimal battery performance and longevity. The controller's ability to adjust the linear regulator based on the target current ensures consistent charging behavior across different operating conditions.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein: the linear regulator is between the output of the wireless power RX and the input of the open-loop DC-DC converter.
A wireless power receiving (RX) system includes a linear regulator and an open-loop DC-DC converter to efficiently convert received wireless power into a stable output voltage. The linear regulator is positioned between the output of the wireless power RX circuit and the input of the open-loop DC-DC converter. The linear regulator conditions the raw wireless power output, reducing voltage fluctuations and noise before passing the signal to the DC-DC converter. The open-loop DC-DC converter then steps up or down the voltage to a desired level without feedback control, simplifying the design while maintaining efficiency. This configuration ensures stable power delivery to a load, such as a battery or electronic device, by first stabilizing the input to the DC-DC converter before further voltage conversion. The system is particularly useful in applications where compact, low-cost power management is required, such as wearable electronics or IoT devices, where minimizing component count and complexity is critical. The linear regulator's placement ensures the DC-DC converter operates within its optimal input range, improving overall system reliability and performance.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein: the linear regulator is between the output of the open-loop DC-DC converter and the terminal configured to be coupled to the battery.
A power management system for battery-powered devices includes an open-loop DC-DC converter that converts an input voltage to a regulated output voltage without feedback control. The output of this converter is connected to a linear regulator, which further conditions the voltage before supplying it to a battery terminal. The linear regulator provides additional voltage regulation and noise filtering to ensure stable charging of the battery. This configuration allows the system to efficiently manage power delivery while maintaining precise voltage levels for battery charging. The open-loop DC-DC converter simplifies the design by eliminating feedback loops, reducing complexity and cost, while the linear regulator compensates for any voltage variations to protect the battery. This approach is particularly useful in applications where compact, low-cost power management is required, such as portable electronics or IoT devices. The system ensures reliable battery charging while minimizing power loss and component count.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the linear regulator is integrated with a reverse current protection block for the electrical power pathway.
A power management apparatus includes a linear regulator integrated with a reverse current protection block to prevent backflow of electrical current in a power pathway. The linear regulator stabilizes input voltage to a desired output level for powering electronic devices, while the reverse current protection block ensures unidirectional current flow, preventing damage from reverse polarity connections or voltage spikes. This integration reduces component count and board space, improving efficiency and reliability in power supply systems. The apparatus is particularly useful in battery-powered devices, automotive electronics, and portable systems where stable power delivery and protection against reverse current are critical. The reverse current protection block may include a diode or a more advanced circuit like a MOSFET-based solution, depending on the application's voltage and current requirements. By combining these functions, the apparatus provides a compact, cost-effective solution for regulated power delivery with inherent protection against reverse current conditions.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the linear regulator is configured to provide over-voltage protection.
A voltage regulation apparatus includes a linear regulator that provides over-voltage protection. The linear regulator is designed to maintain a stable output voltage while preventing damage from excessive input voltage. The apparatus may also include a switching regulator that operates in conjunction with the linear regulator to improve efficiency, particularly under varying load conditions. The switching regulator may be configured to handle higher power levels while the linear regulator ensures precise voltage regulation and protection. The system may further include a control circuit that monitors input and output voltages, adjusting the operation of the regulators to maintain stability and safety. The over-voltage protection feature prevents the output voltage from exceeding a predefined threshold, safeguarding connected devices from potential damage. This apparatus is useful in power supply systems where both efficiency and protection are critical, such as in electronic devices, industrial equipment, or automotive applications. The combination of switching and linear regulation allows for high efficiency during normal operation while ensuring reliable protection against voltage surges.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising: a closed-loop DC-DC converter having an input coupled to the bus and an output configured to be coupled to the terminal that is configured to be coupled to the battery, the electrical power pathway is a first electrical power pathway, the closed-loop DC-DC converter is along a second electrical power pathway from the output of the wireless power RX to the terminal; the controller is further configured to selectively enable one of the closed-loop DC-DC converter or the open-loop DC-DC converter at a time to use the power output from the wireless power RX to the bus to charge the battery.
This invention relates to wireless power transfer systems for charging batteries, particularly in devices where power management between a wireless power receiver (RX) and a battery is optimized. The problem addressed is efficiently routing power from the wireless power RX to a battery while ensuring stable charging, especially when the wireless power RX output may vary or fluctuate. The apparatus includes a wireless power RX that receives power and outputs it to a bus. An open-loop DC-DC converter is coupled between the bus and a terminal for the battery, allowing power to flow directly from the wireless power RX to the battery. Additionally, a closed-loop DC-DC converter is also coupled between the bus and the battery terminal, providing an alternative power pathway. The closed-loop DC-DC converter regulates output voltage or current to the battery, ensuring stable charging even if the wireless power RX output fluctuates. A controller selectively enables either the open-loop or closed-loop DC-DC converter at a time, depending on operating conditions. When the wireless power RX output is stable, the open-loop converter may be used for efficiency. If fluctuations occur, the closed-loop converter is enabled to maintain regulated power delivery to the battery. This selective switching ensures optimal charging performance under varying wireless power conditions.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to control the linear regulator to stabilize a voltage at the bus at the output of the wireless power RX to reduce the interference to the communication.
A wireless power receiver (RX) apparatus includes a linear regulator and a controller. The controller is configured to stabilize the voltage at the bus connected to the output of the wireless power receiver. This stabilization reduces interference with communication signals, ensuring reliable data transmission alongside power transfer. The apparatus may also include a rectifier circuit to convert received wireless power into a usable DC voltage, and a communication circuit to handle data exchange. The controller dynamically adjusts the linear regulator to maintain a stable voltage level, mitigating fluctuations that could disrupt communication. This design is particularly useful in systems where wireless power and data transfer occur simultaneously, such as in wearable devices or IoT sensors, where signal integrity is critical. The stabilization mechanism ensures efficient power delivery without compromising communication performance.
11. A method of charging a battery using wirelessly received power, the method comprising: using a receiver coil to receive power wirelessly at a wireless power receiver (RX); outputting power from an output of the wireless power RX to a bus based on the wirelessly received power; using the receiver coil to wirelessly communicate from the wireless power RX to a transmitter of the wireless power; enabling an open-loop DC-DC converter having an input coupled to the bus and an output coupled to a terminal configured to be coupled to a battery to use the power output to the bus by the wireless power RX to charge the battery; and controlling a linear regulator that is connected in an electrical power pathway from the output of the wireless power RX to the terminal to stabilize a current in the bus at the output of the wireless power RX to reduce interference to the wireless communication when using the receiver coil to wirelessly communicate from the wireless power RX to the transmitter while the open-loop DC-DC converter is being used to charge the battery, the electrical power pathway has a portion that passes from the input of the open-loop DC-DC converter to the output of the open-loop DC-DC converter.
Wireless power transfer systems enable battery charging without physical connections, but interference between power transmission and communication signals can degrade performance. This invention addresses the challenge of maintaining reliable wireless communication during battery charging by stabilizing power delivery to reduce interference. The system includes a wireless power receiver (RX) with a receiver coil that both receives power and facilitates bidirectional communication with a transmitter. The RX outputs power to a bus, which supplies an open-loop DC-DC converter connected to a battery terminal. The open-loop converter efficiently transfers power without feedback control, simplifying design but potentially causing voltage fluctuations that disrupt communication. To mitigate this, a linear regulator is placed in the power pathway between the RX output and the battery terminal. The regulator stabilizes the bus current, minimizing noise that could interfere with wireless communication via the receiver coil. The power pathway includes a segment that bypasses the DC-DC converter, ensuring the regulator can effectively dampen fluctuations. This approach allows simultaneous high-efficiency charging and robust communication, improving overall system reliability.
12. The method of claim 11 , wherein controlling the linear regulator comprises: operating the linear regulator in a mode in which the linear regulator does not actively limit a current in the linear regulator unless a load powered by the battery draws a transient current while the open-loop DC-DC converter is being used to charge the battery.
A method for managing power delivery in an electronic system with a battery, a linear regulator, and an open-loop DC-DC converter involves controlling the linear regulator to optimize power efficiency and stability. The linear regulator is operated in a passive mode, where it does not actively limit current under normal conditions. However, if a load connected to the battery draws a transient current surge, the linear regulator activates to limit current and prevent voltage drops or system instability. This control strategy ensures efficient power delivery while maintaining system reliability during transient events. The open-loop DC-DC converter is used to charge the battery, and the linear regulator's intervention is triggered only when transient currents occur, minimizing unnecessary power dissipation. This approach balances efficiency and stability in battery-powered systems, particularly in applications where transient loads are common. The method avoids continuous current limiting, reducing energy loss while ensuring protection during transient conditions.
13. The method of claim 11 , wherein controlling the linear regulator comprises: establishing a voltage on the bus at the output of the wireless power RX to establish a voltage drop across the linear regulator to cause the linear regulator to be in a current limiting mode whether or not a load powered by the battery draws a transient current while the open-loop DC-DC converter is being used to charge the battery.
This invention relates to wireless power transfer systems, specifically addressing challenges in managing power delivery and battery charging in such systems. The technology focuses on controlling a linear regulator in a wireless power receiver (RX) circuit to ensure stable operation during battery charging, particularly when transient currents occur. The method involves establishing a voltage on the bus at the output of the wireless power RX to create a voltage drop across the linear regulator. This voltage drop forces the linear regulator into a current-limiting mode, regardless of whether a load powered by the battery draws transient current. The open-loop DC-DC converter is used to charge the battery, and the linear regulator's current-limiting mode prevents excessive current draw that could disrupt the charging process or damage components. This approach ensures reliable power delivery and battery charging even under varying load conditions, improving system stability and efficiency in wireless power applications.
14. The method claim 11 , wherein controlling the linear regulator comprises: controlling the linear regulator to limit a current from the output of the open-loop DC-DC converter based on a target battery charging current.
A method for managing power delivery in an electronic system involves controlling a linear regulator to regulate current from an open-loop DC-DC converter to a battery. The system includes a DC-DC converter that converts an input voltage to an output voltage without feedback control, and a linear regulator that conditions the output for battery charging. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently delivering power to a battery while preventing overcurrent conditions that could damage the battery or the charging circuitry. By dynamically adjusting the linear regulator, the method ensures that the current supplied to the battery matches a predefined target charging current, optimizing charging efficiency and safety. The linear regulator acts as a current-limiting device, modulating the output current from the DC-DC converter to maintain the desired charging profile. This approach is particularly useful in systems where precise current control is required, such as portable electronics or battery-powered devices, where maintaining safe and efficient charging is critical. The method leverages the simplicity of an open-loop DC-DC converter while adding controlled current regulation to enhance performance and reliability.
15. An apparatus for charging a battery using wirelessly received power, the apparatus comprising: a power bus; a wireless power receiver (RX) comprising a receiver coil, the wireless power RX configured to use the receiver coil to receive power wirelessly and to communicate wirelessly to a transmitter of the power, the wireless power receiver configured to output direct current (DC) power to the power bus based on the wirelessly received power; a closed-loop DC-DC converter having an input coupled to the power bus and an output configured to be coupled to the battery; an open-loop DC-DC converter having an input coupled to the power bus and an output configured to be coupled to the battery; a linear regulator coupled serially with the open-loop DC-DC converter; and a controller configured to selectively enable one of the closed-loop DC-DC converter or the open-loop DC-DC converter at a time to use the DC power output to the bus by the wireless power RX to charge the battery; the controller further configured to control the linear regulator to stabilize a current on the bus at the output of the wireless power RX to reduce interference to the wireless communication caused by transient load current when using the receiver coil to wirelessly communicate from the wireless power RX to the transmitter of the power while the open-loop DC-DC converter is being used to charge the battery.
This invention relates to wireless battery charging systems, specifically addressing interference issues during power transfer and communication between a wireless power receiver and transmitter. The apparatus includes a wireless power receiver with a coil that receives power and communicates wirelessly with a transmitter. The receiver outputs DC power to a power bus, which supplies energy to multiple charging pathways. A closed-loop DC-DC converter and an open-loop DC-DC converter are both connected to the bus, each capable of charging the battery. A linear regulator is serially connected with the open-loop converter to stabilize bus current and reduce transient load fluctuations that could disrupt wireless communication. A controller selectively enables either the closed-loop or open-loop converter at a time to manage power delivery. When using the open-loop converter, the linear regulator helps maintain stable bus current, minimizing interference with wireless communication between the receiver and transmitter. This design improves charging efficiency and reliability by dynamically adjusting power delivery pathways while mitigating communication disruptions caused by load transients.
16. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein the controller is configured to operate the linear regulator in a mode in which the linear regulator does not actively limit current unless a load powered by the battery draws a transient current while the open-loop DC-DC converter is being used to charge the battery.
A power management system for battery charging and load power delivery includes a DC-DC converter operating in an open-loop configuration to charge a battery and a linear regulator providing power to a load. The system is designed to improve efficiency by minimizing unnecessary current limiting during normal operation. The controller monitors the system and selectively activates current limiting in the linear regulator only when a transient current is detected from the load while the battery is being charged by the open-loop DC-DC converter. This prevents excessive power dissipation in the linear regulator during transient events while allowing unrestricted current flow under steady-state conditions. The open-loop DC-DC converter charges the battery without feedback control, reducing complexity and cost, while the linear regulator ensures stable power delivery to the load. The controller dynamically adjusts the linear regulator's operation to balance efficiency and transient response, particularly during battery charging phases. This approach is useful in applications where both battery charging and load power delivery must be managed efficiently, such as portable electronics or energy storage systems.
17. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein the controller is configured to operate the linear regulator in a mode in which the linear regulator actively limits current whether or not a load powered by the battery draws a transient current while the open-loop DC-DC converter is being used to charge the battery.
This invention relates to power management systems for battery-powered devices, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently charging a battery while supplying power to a load. The system includes a battery, a load, a linear regulator, and an open-loop DC-DC converter. The linear regulator provides stable voltage to the load while the DC-DC converter charges the battery. A controller monitors the system and operates the linear regulator in a mode where it actively limits current, regardless of whether the load draws transient current. This ensures stable operation during battery charging, preventing voltage fluctuations or overcurrent conditions. The controller dynamically adjusts the linear regulator to maintain safe and efficient charging while supplying power to the load. The system is particularly useful in applications where power stability is critical, such as portable electronics or industrial equipment. The invention improves reliability by mitigating transient disturbances and ensuring consistent power delivery during charging cycles.
18. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein the controller is configured to control the linear regulator based on a target current for charging the battery with the open-loop DC-DC converter.
A battery charging system includes a DC-DC converter operating in an open-loop configuration to provide a charging current to a battery. The system further includes a controller that regulates the charging process by adjusting the linear regulator based on a target current value. The open-loop DC-DC converter simplifies the design by eliminating feedback control, reducing complexity and cost. The controller monitors the charging current and dynamically adjusts the linear regulator to ensure the battery receives the desired current, maintaining efficient and safe charging. This approach is particularly useful in applications where precise current control is required without the need for complex feedback mechanisms. The system may also include additional components such as sensors or protection circuits to enhance reliability and performance. The controller may further implement algorithms to optimize charging efficiency, such as adjusting the target current based on battery conditions or environmental factors. This design is suitable for portable devices, electric vehicles, or other applications where controlled battery charging is essential.
19. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein: the linear regulator is between the output of the wireless power RX and the input of the open-loop DC-DC converter.
A wireless power receiving (RX) system includes a linear regulator and an open-loop DC-DC converter to efficiently manage power delivery. The linear regulator is positioned between the output of the wireless power receiver and the input of the open-loop DC-DC converter. This configuration ensures stable voltage regulation before the power is processed by the DC-DC converter, which operates without feedback control to simplify design and reduce cost. The linear regulator provides initial voltage stabilization, while the open-loop DC-DC converter further adjusts the voltage to meet the requirements of the load. This arrangement improves power conversion efficiency and reliability in wireless power transfer systems, particularly in applications where compact size and low complexity are critical. The system avoids the need for closed-loop feedback mechanisms, reducing component count and potential failure points while maintaining consistent output performance. The combination of a linear regulator and an open-loop DC-DC converter optimizes power delivery in wireless charging applications, ensuring efficient and stable power transfer to connected devices.
20. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein: the linear regulator is between the output of the open-loop DC-DC converter and the battery.
A power management system for electronic devices addresses the challenge of efficiently regulating power delivery while maintaining battery health. The system includes an open-loop DC-DC converter that converts an input voltage to a regulated output voltage without feedback control, reducing complexity and cost. A linear regulator is positioned between the output of this DC-DC converter and a battery to further refine the voltage, ensuring stable charging and discharging cycles. The linear regulator provides fine-tuned voltage regulation, protecting the battery from overvoltage conditions while maintaining high efficiency. This configuration allows the system to handle varying input voltages while delivering a consistent output to the battery, extending its lifespan. The combination of an open-loop DC-DC converter and a linear regulator optimizes power conversion efficiency and reliability, making it suitable for portable and embedded applications where power management is critical. The system ensures safe and efficient energy storage and delivery, addressing the need for robust power solutions in modern electronic devices.
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August 29, 2019
February 1, 2022
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